Shifting Alliances and the Heart of Strife

The Congress of Mexico in the Era of the Mexican-American War

The article discusses various updates on the ongoing conflict in Mexico, including the rejection of a proposal for Congress to declare themselves in "Recess," General Worth fortifying strong heights in San Quan and Loretto, reinforcements arriving from New Orleans, and the annulment of Mexican authority in different states. It also mentions horrific assassinations in Vallidolid and Tiximel, the arrival of U.S. forces in Chihuahua, the actions of Guerrillas causing unrest among the people, and the implementation of Mr. Walker's Tariff of duties in Mexican ports.

The article titled "CONGRESS OF MEXICO," dated May 25, provides a sweeping overview of the tumultuous events during the U.S.-Mexican War, a conflict that lasted from 1846 to 1848. The article serves as an essential primary source for understanding the social, political, and military dynamics of the time, as well as the impact of American forces on Mexican sovereignty and local governance.

One of the key highlights from the article is the refusal of the Mexican Congress to declare a "Recess," with the assertion that "Congress rejected the proposition." This decision underscores the determination of Mexican lawmakers to remain in their positions amid intense foreign aggression. Such resolve came in the context of a beleaguered government attempting to demonstrate continuity and authority in the face of a military invasion. The rejection can be interpreted as a signal of nationalistic sentiment, as Congress sought to project unity even amidst impending military threats to the capital.

Further detailing military operations, the article references General Worth's strategic actions, noting that he was "engaged in fortifying the strong heights of San Quan and Loretto," outlining a critical military measure aimed at solidifying U.S. control over advantageous locations around Mexico City. The arrival of 3,500 reinforcements from New Orleans is additionally significant for it indicates a bolstering of U.S. forces, enhancing their capacity to exert control and ultimately aimed at an escalation of military pressure against Mexican resistance.

The article also documents a chilling aspect of the wartime landscape, particularly in Yucatán, where "private letters state that all the whites—men, women, and children, have been assassinated or burnt alive:—by the blacks and Indians." This account of violence depicts not just the chaos stemming from war but also the complex inter-ethnic and societal tensions that erupted in the conflict's wake. These brutal acts of violence signal the breakdown of order and the existence of deep-seated grievances among local populations.

Moreover, the reference to U.S. forces engaging with "Guerrillas of Mexico" presents a particularly complicated dynamic. The phrase, "the Guerrillas are already calling down upon them the curses of their own people," illustrates the internal discord in Mexico, suggesting that the guerrilla fighters, while combatants against U.S. forces, faced alienation and backlash from their own communities. The fact that "the people had sought the aid of the U. S. troops" against these guerrillas reflects a multifaceted war environment where Americans were both invaders and perceived protectors, complicating the local perceptions of legitimacy and authority.

Lastly, the implementation of Walker's Tariff, described as having gone into effect in Vera Cruz, marks a critical shift in how the U.S. aimed to finance its military endeavors in Mexico. The article notes, "All goods sold to the U. S. Troops are of course free of duties," demonstrating a tactical economic strategy to support and sustain the occupying forces, thereby deepening the economic dependency of Mexican territories under U.S. control.

In conclusion, this article encapsulates the chaos and complexity of the U.S.-Mexican War, revealing not only military maneuvers and political stances but also socio-cultural ruptures within Mexico. Such documents are invaluable for historians seeking to understand the multifaceted realities of wartime, as well as the long-lasting implications of imperial conflict on national and local identities.

The Congress of Mexico in the Era of the Mexican-American War: Shifting Alliances and the Heart of Strife

Introduction

The mid-19th century was a tumultuous chapter in the Americas, characterized by territorial disputes, governance crises, and the incipient manifestations of an expansive westward movement by the United States. A key event that unfolded during this period was the Mexican-American War (1846-1848), a conflict that would leave indelible marks on both nations. An insightful article from *The Californian* dated May 25, 1847, offers a fascinating glimpse into the complex political and military landscape of Mexico, showcasing a Congress entangled in both foreign threats and internal chaos.

This article not only chronicles specific military encounters and legislative decisions but also unveils the wider socio-political ramifications of the war, marking it as a turning point in the history of the Americas. As we delve into the events detailed in the article, we will explore the dynamics within Mexico's Congress, the military fortifications led by General William Worth, the brutal realities of guerrilla warfare, and the emerging structures of authority aiming to fill the void left by a faltering government. Importantly, we will also reflect on how these historical events shaped the modern geopolitical landscape of North America.

The State of Mexican Congress

At the heart of the article lies a report on a secret session held by the Mexican Congress on that fateful May day in 1847. In a bold move, the committee proposed declaring a "recess"—a retreat from legislative responsibilities amid the chaos of war. However, this proposition met with swift rejection, signaling a determination to stand firm against the rampant American forces. This steadfastness was not merely a show of propriety; rather, it represented a conscious effort to assert the authority of a beleaguered government in the face of foreign aggression.

The actions taken during this tumultuous period underscore the precarious balance of power within the Mexican government. The ongoing war imposed immense strain on governance, forcing Congress to navigate a labyrinth of military threats and internal discord. As the government came under siege—both literally and metaphorically—the reluctance to abandon representative governance was palpable, even as conditions rapidly deteriorated.

Interestingly, these historical struggles resonate with today's political arenas, where legislative bodies often face unprecedented challenges requiring swift responses. The similarities underscore a timeless truth: governance under siege continues to shape political cultures across the globe.

General Worth and Military Strategies

As military operations escalated, General William Worth's efforts in fortifying the heights of San Juan and Loreto became vital for the defense of Mexico City. Capturing strategic locations like these was not merely a defensive tactic; it was a calculated move to deter the advancing U.S. forces actively. Worth’s declaration to "command the city" hinted at a dual objective: safeguarding Mexican interests while reinforcing determination against foreign encroachment.

Moreover, the article notes the arrival of 3,500 reinforcements from New Orleans—a significant boost to American military capacity. This movement points to the early complexity of military logistics, demonstrating that the rapid deployment and reinforcement of soldiers could decisively influence the outcomes of engagements.

Yet, amid these maneuvers, Worth's decree effectively dissolved any remnants of Mexican authority in the State of Puebla. This act not only marked a clear delineation of battle lines but introduced a complex matrix of new dynamics within the Mexican sociopolitical fabric. Many historians argue that this period catalyzed a crucial reevaluation of governance in Mexico and significantly influenced its path toward revolution.

Reflecting on the broader implications, the dissolution of government authority serves as a cautionary tale. Contemporary examples across the globe illustrate that challenges to state legitimacy can have far-reaching and long-lasting consequences.

The Horrors of Violence: Civil War and Internal Strife

The article paints a chilling picture of life in Yucatán, where reports describe the horrific fate of "all the whites—men, women, and children—who have been assassinated or burnt alive" by local minorities and indigenous groups. Such violence reveals that while a foreign war raged against the backdrop of U.S.-Mexican conflict, internal strife only exacerbated the chaos on the ground.

The brutal clashes between various factions—guerrilla forces and indigenous populations—highlight a grim reality: in times of national turmoil, societal bonds can fracture, leading to rampant violence and despair. The “guerrillas of Mexico” bred an atmosphere of fear and suspicion, complicating traditional military objectives. Historical injustices, particularly against indigenous peoples, festered in the absence of a stabilizing government, creating a vicious cycle of conflict.

These themes resonate with today’s world, where contemporary conflicts frequently echo similar tragic trajectories. The specter of civil wars often complicates external interventions, a reality that engages the urgent need for inclusive governance. The lessons from history regarding the importance of establishing cohesive societal structures remain disappointingly relevant.

The U.S. Military and Authority Dynamics

In Chihuahua, reports from Captain Pike’s vanguard illustrate the intricate interplay between U.S. forces and local responses. As the article reveals, under the leadership of Colonel Doniphan, the U.S. military seized control of the city, capturing adversaries while liberating individuals held hostage by local indigenous groups. Such interventions underscore the dual nature of military campaigns—not only altering the physical landscape of battle but also reshaping perceptions of authority among civilians.

Compounding these challenges, General Scott’s ruthlessness against guerrilla factions—including hanging captured rebels—exposes the lengths to which the U.S. military would go to maintain order within occupied territories. This exertion of authority speaks volumes about how wars can blur the lines between combatants and non-combatants, complicating moral considerations and raising questions about the implications of military force.

Through these historical lenses, parallels emerge with contemporary conflicts, emphasizing the enduring need to comprehend the far-reaching effects of military interventions—both for the nations directly involved and for civilian populations caught in the crossfire.

Economic Ramifications and Tariff Changes

Additionally, the article introduces Mr. Walker's tariff policy, a significant alteration in the economic landscape that sought to compel Mexican cooperation in funding the war effort. Imposed at Vera Cruz, this tariff marked a notable shift in how war and economics intersected, with duties applied to all imported goods, save for supplies directed to U.S. troops.

In this context, we witness the nascent seeds of economic imperialism embedded within U.S. foreign policy. Tariff measures served not just immediate financial needs during the conflict but also set the stage for enduring grievances that would haunt U.S.-Mexico relations long after the war ended.

Today, discussions about trade and sanctions frequently mirror these historical themes, reminding us of the delicate balance between economic policy and military force. The intricacies of diplomacy and coercion remain pertinent, calling attention to the ongoing impact of economic interactions on international relations.

Conclusion

The article chronicling the proceedings of the Mexican Congress amid the tumult of the Mexican-American War encapsulates not just a moment of historical upheaval but also serves as a critical lens through which we can examine our contemporary world. The struggles for authority, social discord, and the intricate interplay of military and economic strategies weave a complex narrative that transcends time.

By reflecting on these pivotal events, we gain insights not only into the specific historical context of the 1840s but also into the timeless nature of human conflict and the quest for governance. As we grapple with the legacies of the past and observe familiar patterns emerging in various global contexts today, we uncover a fundamental truth: history is not simply a relic; it is an ongoing dialogue that shapes our responses to contemporary challenges.

Through this historical prism, we can better appreciate the experiences of governance under siege, the dynamics of internal conflict, military interventions, and the economic forces that shape nations. Learning from these intricate patterns will not only inform our understanding of the past but may also illuminate pathways toward more peaceful futures. Thus, the echoes of history urge us toward a commitment to understanding in all spheres of human interaction.

Key Phrases:

1. **Mexican-American War (1846-1848)** - This conflict played a pivotal role in shaping the territorial and political landscape of North America. For further reading, see *The Mexican-American War: A History* by Richard Bruce Winders on [Texas State Historical Association](https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/mexican-american-war).

2. **Civil War and Internal Strife in Mexico** - The internal conflicts during this period set the stage for future sociopolitical upheaval. Explore this informative piece titled *The Mexican Civil War: A Loss of Innocence* from [The New Yorker](https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2023/09/25/the-mexican-civil-war).

3. **General William Worth and Military Strategies** - Worth's military strategies were crucial in the defense of Mexico City against U.S. forces. For an in-depth analysis of his strategies, refer to *General William J. Worth and the Mexican-American War* on [The American Civil War Museum](https://acwm.org/learn/general-william-j-worth-and-the-mexican-american-war).

4. **Guerrilla Warfare and Societal Bonds** - The impact of guerrilla warfare on societal integrity and governance is a relevant topic. See *Guerrilla Warfare: A Historical Perspective* from [Smithsonian Magazine](https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/the-evolution-of-guerrilla-warfare-180982186/).

5. **Economic Ramifications of the War and Tariff Changes** - This highlights the intersection of war and economic policy. For more on economic policies during conflicts, check out *Trade Policy and Conflict* on [Council on Foreign Relations](https://www.cfr.org/report/trade-policy-and-conflict).

6. **Military Interventions and Authority Dynamics** - The repercussions of military interventions on authority and civilian perceptions are an important subject. Look into *The Consequences of Military Intervention* on [RAND Corporation](https://www.rand.org/pubs/monograph_reports/MR1836/MR1836.chap2.html).

7. **Historical Injustices against Indigenous Peoples** - Understanding historical injustices in Mexico can provide context to present-day issues. For further reading, see *The Cultural and Historical Context of Indigenous Rights in Mexico* on [Human Rights Watch](https://www.hrw.org/news/2021/10/12/indigenous-rights-in-mexico).

These articles and resources will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the key issues presented in the text regarding the Mexican-American War, its implications, and its lasting effects on Mexico and U.S. relations.

**Citation**: The Californian,

- CONGRESS OF MEXICO., 1847-08-07
https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive

Original Article:

—"In secret session to-day a debate took place on the part of the committee on the government, which report recommends that Congress should declare themselves in "Recess," Congress rejected the proposition." This is considered an indication that the Mexican Congress intend to abide the attack on the city without lesving their seats. May 25th. Gen. Worth engaged in fortifying the strong heights of San Quan and Loretto, which command the city, news arrives that 3,500 men had embarked at New Orleans to reinforce the army. Gen. Worth publishes a decree annulling all Mexican Authority in the State of Pueblo; and absolving the people from their allegiance, also that he would punish any who should attempt to execise authority under that govt. In the same manner as had been previously published regarding the State of Vera Cruz. Merida, 12th of March. YUCATAN.—Vallidolid and Tiximel have been the theatres of most horrible assassinations—in the first named city private letters state that all the whites—men, women, and children, have been assassinated or burnt alive:—by the blacks and Indians. Parras, May 19th CHIHUAHUA, PARRAS &c.—"On the 11th inst. the vanguard of the U. S. forces—100 regulars under Capt. Pike, and on the 13th the whole division which have occupied Chihuahua 600 men, more or less with 14 pieces of cannon, came in. They encamped in the Alameda. Their chief is Col. Doniphan, the soldiers seem to hold him in great estimation; on the 17th they left for Saltillo, having received orders to do so from the U. S." They have killed a considerable number of the hostile Indians and liberated 12 of our people who had been taken by the Indians." The Guerrillas of Mexico.—As was predicted the Guerrillas are already calling down upon them the curses of their own people, at one place the people rose en masse and put a Guerrilla chief to death, in other places, the people had sought the aid of the U. S. troops, for protection against these marauders. It is said that Gen. Scott had hung up some of them who were taken robbing : VERA CRUZ.— Mr Walkers Tariff of duties in Mexican ports to make the Mexicans contribute to the expenses of the war went into operation at Vera Cruz on the 7th May. Mr. Dimond late U.S. consul collector of the port : All goods imported whether from the U. S. or elsewhere pay duties, and at nearly the same rates as under the old Mexican Tariff, upon which the present rates are based—All goods sold to the U. S. Troops are of course free of duties, to the sutlers.

The article discusses the unique situation of Americans living in a conquered territory without established laws, highlighting the differences between the Anglo Saxon race and the original inhabitants. It also praises the generosity of the United States in providing relief to the suffering Irish population, showcasing the success of the government and the prosperity of the country.

The article titled "NEWS," offers a richly layered perspective of American identity.

The Unique Conditions of American Sovereignty in California (1846-1848)

Gvernance during a tumultuous period in U.S. history, likely during the Mexican-American War (1846-1848) and its aftermath. The reflections include themes of territorial conquest, rights of citizens, and the socio-economic conditions of both indigenous peoples and immigrant populations, particularly the Irish.

Initially, the author underscores the precarious position of Americans living in "a conquered Territory," indicating a sense of disenfranchisement and military rule. The phrase, "We are here by the right of the strong arm," evokes the forceful nature of American expansionism and conquest. This can be contextualized within the framework of Manifest Destiny, the 19th-century doctrine that the expansion of the U.S. throughout the American continents was both justified and inevitable.

Moreover, the author reflects on the nature of governance in such uncertain times, stating, "Our election, a few days since, was not the fiat of the people, but the favor of the Governor." This highlights a disconnection between popular sovereignty, as espoused in democratic frameworks, and the realities of governance in newly acquired territories. The emerging governance structures were heavily influenced by military authority and political appointments rather than the democratically elected will of the people, which posed significant challenges to the ideology of American democracy.

The author also contrasts the lifestyles of the indigenous populations with those of Anglo-Saxon settlers, noting that "they were a nation of herdsmen," and thus their social structures were markedly different. This acknowledgment hints at the tensions arising from cultural misunderstandings and differing economic systems. The indigenous people were viewed through a lens of Eurocentrism that judged their ways of life as inferior due to a lack of industrialization and urban development, leading to a one-dimensional view of their existence.

Further, the piece touches on the plight of the Irish, drawing a parallel between their hardships at home and the struggles faced by the native inhabitants of the land they ‘conquered.’ The statement, "Poverty, laziness, disease, are hard things under the sun," paints a poignant picture of the dire circumstances suffered by many and the relevance of economic opportunities in America. The author vividly recounts the generosity of American society in response to the Irish plight, stating, "All eyes were turned upon the United States... Those facts require no comment." This indicates a sense of pride in the moral duty fulfilled by American citizens towards their Irish brethren, which reflects both the interconnectedness of immigrant experiences and the growing sense of American identity as one capable of compassion.

In conclusion, this article serves as a microcosm of the complexities surrounding the notions of territory, rights, and identity in mid-19th century America. It reflects a society grappling with its own values amidst the consequences of expansionism and the incorporation of diverse populations into the national narrative. The historical context of this piece helps illuminate the struggle for rights, the push and pull of cultural assimilation, and the growing pains associated with America’s evolving identity during a period marked by contradictions between idealism and reality.

Title: Echoes of History: The Unique Conditions of American Sovereignty in California (1846-1848)

In the annals of American history, few moments are as culturally and politically complex as the years surrounding California's transition to American sovereignty. The mid-1840s were a tumultuous period, marked by military conquests, national aspirations, and the myriad lives caught in this extraordinary transformation. By exploring an article titled "NEWS" from *The Californian*, a newspaper of that era, we gain insight into a situation rife with contradictions, challenges, and opportunities—one that resonates with the core of the American identity. This exploration is shaped by notions of rights, governance, inclusion, and the clash of cultures.

1. The Peculiar Condition of Conquered Territory

The article opens with a candid acknowledgment of life in a "conquered Territory," emphasizing the legal and societal ambiguities that characterize such locations. The journalist notes, "As Americans, residing in a conquered Territory, our situation is a peculiar one," illustrating how the people of California grappled with the implications of a transfer of sovereignty born not of self-determination but of military might. The mention of a lack of protective laws for the population—save for "the efficient law of military authority"—captures the precarious existence of those living under military governance, hinting at an arduous struggle for civic rights and societal stability.

This stark reality underscores a distinct tension within the American identity. An ideal rooted in democracy was juxtaposed against an expansionist drive reliant on military force. The situation illustrated the growing pains of a burgeoning nation wrestling with its principles and practices, standing in stark contrast to the lofty ideals enshrined in the Declaration of Independence. Furthermore, the reference to elections heavily influenced by the "favor of the Governor" highlights a significant disconnect between the populace and their governing bodies. In a land ostensibly promised to the people, their voices seemed muted, manipulated by those in power—a theme that resonates powerfully in today's discussions on authority, rights, and public engagement.

2. The Ambivalence of Popular Rights

As the article delves into the agitation for popular rights within the context of military rule, it exposes the chasm felt by citizens accustomed to the tenets of participatory democracy. The assertion that "this may seem an evil to those [...] made to understand that they were an essential unit in the aggregate of a popular election" poignantly captures the discontent of the populace. Beneath this sentiment lies a frustration with their impotence in shaping their governance under external authority.

The concept of popular rights—so foundational to American democracy—was being rewritten in a context marked by territorial acquisition driven by conflict. This nuanced interpretation speaks to both historical and contemporary struggles, wherein the rights of citizens often clash with external governance. Moreover, the perception that this governance was organic and beneficial serves as a lens through which we can anticipate modern discussions around governance by overarching governmental bodies.

3. The Illusion of Unimpeded Progress

A point of contention emerges between the evaluation of Native practices and the expectations imposed by newly arrived settlers. The article highlights the disconnect between the herdsmen’s methods of subsistence and the capitalist, industrial vision that the newcomers brought to California. The critique of original inhabitants for not “building cities” or utilizing the land according to Euro-American standards starkly contrasts with the settlers' need for "progress" as defined by their civilization and industrial ideals.

This juxtaposition alludes to a broader theme relevant in historical analysis: the notion that progress must align with Euro-American ideals while disregarding the legitimacy of other forms of existence that do not conform to this mold. The remark that "if our cities are hot beds of vice" calls into question the moral judgments that often accompany such narratives. The consequences of invasion—physical and socio-economic—raise critical questions about the sustainability of societies built on imposition rather than inclusion and respect.

4. Reflections on Cultural Capacities

As we delve deeper into the sentiments expressed by the land's inhabitants, the article gently critiques the superiority complex often felt by Anglo settlers. The original inhabitants, characterized by their distinct "occupations" and "enjoyments," challenge the simplistic colonial narrative. The author acknowledges: "We forget that they were a nation of herdsmen," presenting a compelling argument in favor of understanding the native relationship with the land as one of symbiosis rather than exploitation.

In this light, the article serves as an early testament to a cultural anthropology that appreciates diverse ways of life. Such insights remain pertinent in contemporary discussions about the rights of indigenous peoples and their relationship to land and resources. They prompt us to reconsider how notions of progress can honor diverse cultural fabrics, rather than homogenizing them under the banner of modernity.

5. Emotional Depth in Challenging Times

The analogy of a herdsman transforming into a soldier sheds light on the complex nature of conflict and its societal implications. This observation reveals the human conditions intertwined with the rise and fall, loss, and gain. The tranquil existence of the herdsman is contrasted with the struggles faced in urban environments, weighed down by “anarchy and misrule”—a reflection that continues to echo in contemporary urban discussions about crime, poverty, and governance.

By positing that a herdsman may return from conflict "not beggared, or even impoverished," the author touches upon a resilience intertwined with cultural identities and socio-economic capabilities. The varying ways individuals respond to upheaval—whether they emerge unscathed or find themselves facing debilitating violence—invites robust discussions on societal evolution and recovery.

6. The Social Landscape of the Times

The article's examination of the Irish population provides a poignant example of the enduring human spirit in times of hardship. The line “Poverty, laziness, disease, are hard things under the sun, but it is harder yet when the arm of a nation's strength is paralysed” captures a deep social awareness that resonates with contemporary issues surrounding globalization, migration, and disaster relief.

This contemplation on disaster relief highlights a salient point regarding collective identities—nationality dissolving in the face of shared humanitarian needs. The account of American responses to Irish suffering illustrates an evolving vision of America—one that generously extends aid beyond its borders, fostering a community born from shared purpose and empathy.

7. Concluding Reflections

As we reflect on the article from *The Californian* titled "NEWS," it becomes evident how the dilemmas and paradoxes of Californian sovereignty echo through time into our present day. Issues surrounding democracy, identity, rights, and human connection transcend individual narratives, shaping an ongoing discourse about belonging, voice, and meaningful participation in governance—a conversation that remains vital as we navigate today's landscape of rights and representation.

Framing the American experience amidst the conquest in California as one of struggle, adaptation, and resilience elucidates the fortitude embedded within the American spirit. This historical reflection provides more than just a glimpse into a formative moment of American identity; it offers lessons in resilience, respect for cultural differences, and the enduring quest for a more inclusive future. The civil rights discourse of today, emerging disparities, and the interconnectedness stemming from immigration and cultural exchange remain pertinent themes, urging us to learn from the past as we consider our actions moving forward.

Through this deeper understanding of a foundational narrative, we position ourselves better to forge a society that honors its past while aspiring for a hopeful and equitable future.

Key Phrases:

1. **"Peculiar Condition of Conquered Territory"** - This phrase highlights the complexities of governance under military authority after territorial acquisition. For further exploration, see "Occupation and Sovereignty" from [Harvard Law Review](https://harvardlawreview.org/2019/03/occupation-of-territory-legal-concerns-and-practices/).

2. **"Ambivalence of Popular Rights"** - This phrase examines the tensions surrounding democracy and rights during periods of military rule. For more information, check out "The Politics of Rights and Popular Sovereignty" from [American Political Science Review](https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/american-political-science-review/article/politics-of-rights-and-popular-sovereignty/DA77E6D6F4343F675A504E2C3382694E).

3. **"Illusion of Unimpeded Progress"** - This phrase addresses the critique of Euro-American notions of progress versus indigenous practices. Explore the implications further in "Manifest Destiny and American Expansionism" from [National Park Service](https://www.nps.gov/articles/manifest-destiny.htm).

4. **"Reflections on Cultural Capacities"** - This phrase critiques the superiority complex of Anglo settlers and highlights their misunderstandings of native practices. For a deeper understanding, see "Indigenous Perspectives on Sustainability" from [The Journal of Sustainability Education](http://www.sustedjournal.org).

5. **"Emotional Depth in Challenging Times"** - This phrase discusses the societal implications of conflict and individual resilience. For a broader context, read "Resilience and Community Recovery" from [American Psychological Association](https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2020/resilience-community-recovery).

6. **"The Social Landscape of the Times"** - This phrase highlights the enduring human spirit amidst hardship, particularly regarding the Irish population. For relevant insights, access "Immigration, Refugees, and the Irish Experience" from [The National Archives](https://www.archives.gov/research/immigration/refugees-irish).

7. **"Concluding Reflections on Californian Sovereignty"** - This phrase speaks to ongoing discussions about democracy, identity, and human connection. Explore contemporary implications in "Democracy and the Politics of Social Justice" from [Stanford Social Innovation Review](https://ssir.org/articles/entry/democracy_and_the_politics_of_social_justice).

**Citation**: The Californian
- NEWS., 1847-09-22
https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive

Original Article:

As Americans, residing in a conquered Territory, our situation is a peculiar one. We are here by the right of the strong arm. We have no law for our protection, but the efficient law of military authority. Our election, a few days since, was not the fiat of the people, but the favor of the Governor. This may seem an evil to those who, occasionally, have been made to understand that they were an essential unit in the aggregate of a popular election. It is a check to those who would declaim loudest about popular rights, or to those who would stoop lowest to bask in the sunshine of popular favor. In the history of our government, we have no precedent of the situation as citizens that we exhibit today. We have been so accustomed, from childhood, to hear of administrations overthrown, abuses corrected, law-makers appointed by the ballot box, that we scarce believe in the virtue of anything else. When California shall become the property of the United States, either by treaty or purchase, then laws like those in some of the Spanish portions of our land, adapted to the wants of a mixed population, will afford protection to us all as citizens of the United States; then all can unite, as a people, and assume their rights. The evils arising from the war and its mismanagement are passing away, and although it is evident from secret correspondence, since published, that our government desired peaceful occupation and concilatory measures, we will not sigh over the evils of the past. The destiny of the country is in our hands. We hear the original owners of the soil often blamed that they did not improve the facilities about them, that they did not build cities, that they saw the waters of the Bay ebb and flow, and rode over the level praries, and never thought of a steam boat or a rail-road. We forget that they were a nation of herdsmen, that their occupations, their enjoyments, are different from ours. If they had none of the advantages, they had none of the evils of a large society. Their virtues and vices were those of individuals, not of masses. It is often said that the country was torn and distracted by revolution. A herdsman easily becomes a soldier, his cattle browse as securely on the hills and, as before, obey the same law of natural increase and he returns from a revolution not more bloody, and less exciting than a political election in N. York or N. Orleans, to find himself not beggared, or even impoverished. They had their amusements, the holy days of the Catholic church, a church equally adopted to the highest or the lowest stages of life, with its mystic symbols for the ignorant, and their spiritual explanation for the wise. We have no right to complain that they dwelt upon the soil after their own fashion; for it was their own land, and from it they lived and enjoyed. If our cities are hot beds of vice, if anarchy and misrule are the fruits of invasion, if the rights of the weak are disregarded by the strong, then will they painfully compare their former state with the present. We of the Anglo Saxon race bring hither a different policy, that policy, which, at home, has made cities arise from the the wilderness, and checkered the country with canals and railroads. In an old country it is often difficult to find employment. Situations even the lowest and most menial, became like wealth and name hereditary, and "my lord's" game keeper becomes the son's game keeper, as surely as the son becomes "my lord." Look at Ireland; as contrasted with the United States, and ask yourself the cause of all the suffering there—A crop has failed, one single crop, and the whole population starve. The Irish are not a lazy people. They are the bone and sinew of every work in the United States. In their own land, with haggard faces, they beg, not for bread, but for work. How sensibly Sidney Smith writes. ''What is the object of all government? The object of all government is roast mutton, potatoes, a stout constable, an honest justice, a clear highway, a free school. What trash to be brawling in the streets about the Green Isle, the Isle of the Ocean! the best anthem of Erin go Bragh. A better anthem would be Erin go bread and, cheese, Erin go cabins that keep out the rain, Erin go pantaloons without holes in them." Poverty, laziness, disease, are hard things under the sun, but it is harder yet when the arm of a nations strength is paralized, and her people beg for work—We know of no nation who would submit to this with better grace than the brave and generous Irish. When the call for relief came, all Europe shrunk back aghast. They could not relieve their suffering. Their means were inadequate. All eyes were turned upon the United States. That country, which has given sucor to so many emigrants, will not fail their bretheren at home, in the hour of need, nor did they. Nationality is forgotten. Meetings were called of members of Congress, members of Legislature, of all classes, who with a common feeling, contributed to the relief of the poor Irish. Those facts require no comment. We wish no surer evidence of the prosperity of our country and the success of our government than this.